TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Terms and Conditions

Driver’s Licence Requirements
All drivers must have held a full and valid driver’s licence for at least five years. Acceptable licences include those issued in New Zealand, internationally, or from overseas countries, provided they are current. If the licence is not in English, an official translation or an International Driving Permit is required. Drivers with less than five years of experience may be accepted at the Manager’s discretion, but may incur a higher insurance excess.

Rental Period

A one-day rental covers a 24-hour period from the time of pickup. Extra charges for additional hours vary by location. Payment must be made at the start of the rental by cash, credit card, or debit plus card. Please note: a credit card is required to secure the insurance excess, as debit plus cards cannot be used for this purpose.

Taxes

All rental prices include a 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST).

Insurance

For drivers aged 25 and older, the standard insurance excess starts from NZ$2,500 + GST. Specialty vehicles may carry higher excess fees. Optional windscreen insurance may be available—please enquire when booking. Excess amounts and eligibility requirements may vary by location and vehicle type.

Bond

All hires require a bond. A credit card imprint may be required as a security bond. Debit plus cards are not accepted for this purpose.

Early Vehicle Return

No refund will be provided for unused rental days if the vehicle is returned early.

One-Way Rentals

One-way hires are available between most branches, subject to minimum rental periods and applicable drop-off fees.

Child Safety Seats

In accordance with New Zealand law, child restraints are required for children up to 7 years old. Child and baby seats can be hired when booking. Please provide the child’s age and weight to ensure an appropriate seat is reserved.

Cancellations

Cancellations made within 7 days of the scheduled pickup may incur a fee equal to one day’s rental or 10% of the total hire cost (whichever is greater). Cancellations within 48 hours of the pickup time or no-shows are charged the full rental amount. Fees may vary for specialty vehicles.

Privacy Policy

Zoom Rental Cars respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information while providing services and relevant updates. By sharing your information, you consent to its use as described below.

Information Collection & Use

We collect personal data (e.g., name, address, email) when you book with us or participate in promotions. This information is used to fulfil your booking, contact you, improve our services, and provide related offers. We do not share your information with third parties.

Please note that our privacy policy does not apply to external websites linked from our own. Contact us for more details.

Rental Agreement Overview

This agreement is between Zoom Rental Cars (the “operator”) and the person named in the agreement (the “hirer”). By signing this agreement, the hirer accepts the following terms:

1. Vehicle and Rental Term
The operator agrees to rent the vehicle specified in the agreement to the hirer for the agreed period.

2. Authorized Drivers
Only drivers listed in the agreement may drive the vehicle. All drivers must hold a valid full licence for a minimum of five years appropriate to the vehicle class.

3. Rental Charges
The hirer must pay the rental fees outlined in the agreement. Additional charges may apply for fuel, distance, RUC, late returns, damage, tolls, traffic violations, and related administration fees. These may be charged to the credit card provided.

4. Vehicle Use Restrictions
The vehicle must not be used for:

Paid passenger services (unless licensed)

Sub-rental or unauthorized use

Driving under the influence

Racing or towing

Off-road or prohibited roads (e.g., Skippers Road, 90 Mile Beach)

Overloading

By unlicensed or unauthorized drivers

5. Operator Responsibilities
The vehicle will be provided in a safe and roadworthy condition, with a current Certificate of Fitness.

6. Hirer Responsibilities
The hirer agrees to:

Operate the vehicle safely and maintain fluid levels

Secure the vehicle when unattended

Avoid tampering with odometer or mechanical systems

Contact the operator immediately in case of warnings or breakdowns

Cover all costs related to misfuelling

7. Traffic Infringements
The hirer is responsible for any fines or penalties incurred during the rental. The operator may charge the hirer’s card for these, plus an administration fee. The hirer has the right to dispute infringements with the relevant authorities.

8. Insurance Coverage
Insurance is included unless the hirer opts to use personal insurance (with approval). Standard cover includes damage to the vehicle, its accessories, and associated losses up to the applicable excess.
Exclusions apply, including but not limited to:

Driving under the influence

Unauthorized drivers or unlicensed individuals

Reckless or deliberate damage

Driving on restricted roads

Failing to report incidents or complete claims

9. Hirer’s Own Insurance
If the hirer chooses to use personal insurance, they assume full liability for all damage or loss to the vehicle and related costs.

10. Accidents & Breakdowns
In the event of an accident or mechanical issue, the hirer must notify the operator immediately. Unauthorized repairs are not permitted unless necessary to prevent further damage. Replacement vehicles may be offered at the operator’s discretion, but no refund will be issued for unused rental time.

11. Return of Vehicle
The vehicle must be returned by the agreed date, unless an extension is approved in advance. The operator may reclaim the vehicle without notice if terms are breached. The hirer is liable for any damage identified upon inspection.

Important Notices to Hirers

A copy of this agreement must remain in the vehicle at all times during the rental period.

Fuel used must be replaced, or refuelling charges and a service fee will apply.

Vehicles returned unclean may incur a cleaning fee.

Early drop-off without written approval may result in additional fees.

Extensions must be approved at least 24 hours before the original return date.

Hirers are responsible for tyre repairs and replacements during the hire period.